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Related Experiment Videos

Neuromuscular adaptations following prepubescent strength training

J C Ozmun1, A E Mikesky, P R Surburg

  • 1Department of Physical Education, Indiana State University.

Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|April 1, 1994
PubMed
Summary

Resistance training significantly increased muscular strength in prepubescent children. Early gains are likely due to enhanced muscle activation, not just physical changes.

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Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Exercise Science
  • Sports Medicine
  • Human Physiology

Background:

  • Mechanisms behind strength improvements in prepubescent children undergoing resistance training remain unclear.
  • Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for optimizing training protocols for youth.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of an 8-week resistance training program on muscular strength, electromyography (EMG) activity, and arm anthropometrics in prepubescent youth.
  • To determine if strength gains are associated with neural adaptations (increased muscle activation) or hypertrophic changes.

Main Methods:

  • Sixteen prepubescent children (mean age 10.3 years) were randomized into a trained group or a control group.
  • The trained group performed 8 weeks of bicep curls (3 sets, 7-11 reps, 3x/week).

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  • Measurements included isotonic/isokinetic elbow flexor strength, arm anthropometrics, and biceps brachii integrated EMG (IEMG) amplitude, pre- and post-training.

    • Main Results:

    • The trained group showed significant increases in isotonic strength (22.6%) and isokinetic strength (27.8%).
    • A significant increase in IEMG amplitude (16.8%) was observed in the trained group.
    • No significant changes in arm circumference or skinfolds were found in the trained group.

    Conclusions:

    • Early increases in muscular strength in prepubescent children following resistance training appear to be primarily driven by neural adaptations, specifically increased muscle activation.
    • These findings suggest that prepubescent children can enhance strength through improved motor unit recruitment and firing rates.
    • Resistance training is effective for improving strength in prepubescent youth, with neural factors playing a key role in initial adaptations.